Immigration Processing for Special Programs

If your unit needs to bring non-degree, unenrolled special program participants, please consult ISSS during the planning process and note there is an immigration processing fee of $50 for each initial DS-2019 document issued. ISSS cannot guarantee document processing times for special programs.

Possible visa status options for short term programs at Kansas State:

  • F-1: full-time enrolled students in a currently approved, non-degree or degree option. Verify with ISSS if there is currently approved program for issuing F-1 documentation.
  • J-1 non-degree: formal MOU/exchange agreement; could be enrolled for credit or non-credit bearing program.
  • B-1/B-2 visitor visa: professional development or seminars that don’t result in academic credit or certificates; primary purpose is tourism; programs that are recreational or avocational; less than full-time “student” with the study being incidental to visit.

In order to determine the best visa status for participants, departments must complete and submit the Short-Term Programs worksheet.